England have revealed Marcus Smith could miss the entire Six Nations because of the calf injury that has already ruled him out of upcoming clashes against Italy and Wales.
France captain Gregory Alldritt is confident his team is ready to deliver against Ireland in the Marseille opener of the Six Nations on Friday evening.
New Ireland skipper Peter O'Mahony has dismissed suggestions Friday's "colossal" Guinness Six Nations curtain-raiser against France will be an early title decider.
Danny Cipriani has confirmed his permanent exit from professional rugby.
Maxime Lucu will start at No.9 for France in their opening Six Nations match against Ireland on Friday.
A calf injury to Marcus Smith will see the backline player miss England's opening Six Nations match against Italy.